A Blues Chronicle: From Robert Johnson To Robert Cray

The Evolution of The Blues
The blues began in America. It was made popular by traditional artists like Blind Willie Jefferson, Son House, Blind Willie McTell and Robert Johnson. However, the most influential period of the blues was in the late ’50s and early ’60s. Electric instruments heavily dominated this blues scene. Check out this video: Sweet Home Chicago with (among many others) Cray and Clapton. Does it get any better?

The blues artists that dominated this period were Slim Harpo, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson and John Lee Hooker. In addition, it was the blues artists of the ’60s that influenced the next wave of blues that included Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Robert Cray and Taj Mahal.

When Electric Guitars And Amps Were Introduced To The Blues
One of the most influential aspects of the blues was the advent of electric guitars and amps. At this point in history, blues artists could take their skills to the next level with the aid of extraordinary new sounds.

Thanks to technology and science, the blues become a widespread phenomenon. In fact, many blues artists of the ’50s and ’60s were discovered outside on the streets. There is no doubt that electric instruments were pivotal to the evolution of the blues.

The modern blues-why the blues is still relevant

If you are someone who is deeply invested in learning more about music, one genre that stands out to you may be the blues. The blues is a genre that was pioneered by black musicians, and many of the themes and beats came out of old spirituals. The blues are a genre that takes a frank look at how difficult life is, and the strength in the music is not a guarantee that things will get better but that other people feel the same way that you do.

Though the blues are very much associated with the beginning of the twentieth century, the truth of the matter is that there is a universal quality that makes this genre still current. Though modern blues musicians talk about different things, the truth is that there is still a depth of emotion to this genre that makes it relevant today. Far from being a genre that was crystallized in one moment in time, it is one that continues to come forward with us. Not just in America but also in far-away corners of the planet like Australia.

When you are looking for music that has themes that can resonate with anyone who has been in a hard time, take a moment to consider what the blues might have to say. For where to go in LA, click here.